Monday, May 13, 2013

#IStillLoveCalligraphy

So I've started my calligraphy e-course and I have to say I'm slightly obsessed. I've been practicing every day for a week (save Friday) and find myself thinking about it when I'm not near my supplies. I'm still wibbly wobbly as I learn to "paint" the letterforms, but I'm slowly growing more comfortable with the pointed pen and today started linking the letters to learn how to properly kern - or space out - the letters. It's not as easy as it looks when there are so many loop-the-loops. (I fared better with "the quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog" than I did with "hello.")

I've also searched around for a virtual calligraphy community and have found the super talented calligrapher Maybelle who teaches live classes around the country and will be popping into atelier Bellocq in New York City for two workshops on July 25. Check her Facebook page for more info.

One of my Souvenir Foto Shop teachers is also really into calligraphy. A browse through Miss Tristan B.'s Besotted blog yielded tips on great nibs, supply reviews, where to shop, and calligraphy fonts if you just want the pretty effect without the ink stains. As to where to buy, many recommend John Neal Bookseller and Paper & Ink Arts, which is were I bought my materials. The lovely thing about calligraphy is that it's incredibly affordable to take up. A nib holder and ink costs about $5 each and nibs cost less $2 apiece so you can easily play with a few to find out what lettering styles you like.

HELLO

Hi, I'm Dorkys, a NYC-based writer/illustrator who's currently loving art journaling, decorating my new apartment, and relearning how to play the guitar. Here, I cover life, my art and writing career, travels, and the ins and outs of surviving in this hectic city.